LSU only hurting itself with prolonged Brian Kelly battle

LSU’s dispute with former head coach Brian Kelly is potentially costing it millions.

On Monday, ESPN college football reporters Dan Wetzel and Pete Thamel reported that attorneys for Kelly wrote a letter to LSU stating that university actions following Kelly’s dismissal has “made it nearly impossible” for him to land a coaching gig this offseason.

For a school that’s fighting Kelly on his buyout amount, it’s beyond foolish to keep battling its former coach when a clean break could shrink his money owed.

LSU hurting its finances with petty Brian Kelly squabble

After initially firing Kelly following a 49-25 loss to College Football Playoff No. 3 Texas A&M (11-0, 7-0 SEC), LSU officials backtracked in an attempt to fire him “for cause,” which would reduce his $54M buyout. The Tigers’ claim seemingly is without merit, as Kelly’s shortcomings came on the sidelines and not due to any off-field transgression.

By not paying Kelly what he’s owed based on the contract both parties agreed to, it’s created confusion when programs searching for a head coach are seeking clarity.

Instead of looking for a loophole, the Tigers show take ownership of their mistake and pay Kelly, if for no other reason than fully put that failed era in the rearview. But it would also benefit the program financially.

LSU only needs to look at Penn State, which owed former coach James Franklin a $49M buyout before he accepted Virginia Tech’s opening. Franklin signed a five-year, $41.75M contract, shrinking his Penn State buyout to $9M.

LSU would likewise benefit from any deal Kelly signs, but that becomes less likely the longer the university drags out his contract saga. Arguing over Kelly’s buyout isn’t helping anyone. It’s past time that the Tigers come to their senses.